The NSW Government has officially started construction on the state’s first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence at Glenwood, a move aimed at strengthening the skills of workers in the growing hydrogen and renewable energy sector.
In a news release, the government said the $25 million facility is expected to train and upskill around 8,250 plumbers and gasfitters over its first five years.
Construction of the centre is set to support more than 500 jobs, including over 100 apprenticeships, providing an economic boost for Western Sydney. Once fully operational, the facility will employ around 50 staff.
The centre will feature purpose-built workshops and classrooms equipped with hydrogen-specific training tools such as electrolysers, gas fitting systems, and safety simulation environments, giving apprentices and existing workers practical experience to meet future industry demands.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said the project will ensure a skilled local workforce is ready to support the state’s future energy system.
“This Centre will help prepare the plumbers and gasfitters who will work with hydrogen as the technology develops,” Minns said.
“It means long-term jobs, high-quality training, and a pipeline of local workers ready to support the shift to cleaner energy.”
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos highlighted the role of the centre in addressing skills shortages.
“This Hydrogen Centre of Excellence is about making sure NSW has the skilled workforce ready for the future. As industries begin to use hydrogen, we need plumbers and gasfitters equipped with the specialist skills to install and maintain these systems safely and effectively,” Houssos said.
“By investing in this training now, we’re ensuring that workers and businesses are ready for the opportunities that come with hydrogen technology. This is about preparing our workforce and supporting local jobs.”
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan added that the investment ensures access to high-quality, industry-led training aligned with future skills needs.
“It highlights the value of strong collaboration between government, industry and unions in building the workforce that will support NSW’s economic and sustainability goals,” Whan said.
Federal Attorney-General and Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland welcomed the centre, noting its benefits for the local community.
“We’re proud to host the state’s first Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Glenwood, ensuring our community is not just benefitting from the energy transition but is leading it. This investment will mean more secure jobs and training opportunities here in the heart of North West Sydney,” Rowland said.
